Brooks and the Great Big Playground Song is a joyful picture book about friendship, empathy, autism, and the magic that happens when every child's "song" is welcomed. Brooks loves the playground-slides, swings, sunshine-and his two dogs, Peanut and Leti. When a new boy stays quiet and keeps to himself, Brooks worries he did something wrong. That's when Nana shares a real piece of history: the story of Thomas "Blind Tom" Wiggins, a Black musical prodigy born blind, autistic, and enslaved in the 1800s, who could play back any song after hearing it once and even performed at the White House. Inspired by Tom's story, Brooks realizes that people express themselves in many ways. Some use words. Some use movement. Some use sound. So Brooks starts a playground band for everyone-Peanut howls, Leti keeps a steady "woof," the swings squeak in rhythm, kids clap on beat, and the quiet boy hums along. Different voices become one beautiful song. This heart-warming read is perfect for parents, educators, librarians, counselors, and kids ages 4-8. It opens gentle conversations about autism and inclusion while celebrating cultural history and the power of kindness. Themes: Friendship, autism awareness, empathy, courage, history, music, celebrating differences Great for: Classroom read-alouds, school counselors, bedtime storytime, Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Historical thread: Introduces children to Thomas "Blind Tom" Wiggins in an age-appropriate, inspiring way Series: The Adventures of a Boy Named Brooks - Book 2 (Book 1: Brooks and the Great Big Bark-Off) Why kids love it: playful dogs, humor, music, a "band" they can join. Why grown-ups love it: positive representation, conversation-ready language about autism, and a meaningful Black history connection. About the series Real Stories. Real Heroes. Real Inspiration. The Adventures of a Boy Named Brooks helps families talk about courage, kindness, teamwork, and character-through lively stories tied to true history. From the author "I wrote this book to help kids see that differences aren't obstacles-they're instruments. When we listen to each other, we make something beautiful together." - Heather Broner